Portable Physical Fitness Device

ABSTRACT

A portable physical fitness device with two resistance bands, one for each arm, is disclosed. The resistance bands have a handle end and a connecting end. The resistance bands are long enough to allow a user to hold onto the resistance band handles and fully extend their arms. The resistance bands are removably attached to a waist belt at locations that correspond to the user&#39;s right side and left side. Resistance bands pass through openings in the waist belt and are attached to the waist belt. In another embodiment, the resistance bands fit inside one-way ratchet devices attached to the belt, so that the bands are stored on the waist belt when not in use.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) toco-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/325,837, entitled“Portable Physical Fitness Device” and filed on Mar. 31, 2022, theentire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is related to exercise equipment, in particular, to aportable physical fitness device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Walking and hiking are excellent forms of exercise, and can be done byalmost anyone, of any age. However, these activities primarily work thelower body muscles, especially the legs. In order to work the upper bodymuscles, especially the arms, at the same time, a walker may carry freeweights. The free weights can be carried in the hands or weights, suchas ankle weights or wrist weights, can be strapped on the legs or arms.This is cumbersome, is limited by the amount of weight the person cancarry, and does not provide a tension workout.

Therefore, there is a need for a new and novel exercise device thatsolves these issues.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages,and novel features of the invention are described herein. It is to beunderstood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved inaccordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus,the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achievesor optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught hereinwithout necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught orsuggested herein.

The invention is a portable physical fitness device that allows for acardio engagement of the upper body and upper muscle groups whilewalking or hiking. It allows the user to efficiently and effectivelywork both the upper and lower parts of the body, thus also increasingaerobic output. The invention is also universal in that it can fit andwork for almost anyone, of any age or size.

It can also be used stationary, almost anywhere, allowing for aresistance and tension workout at any time. Further, unlike currentresistance bands that need to be attached to a wall, bench, door, beam,or other fixed structure, this invention does not require attachment toany external structure.

Various embodiments of the invention also provide additional backsupport for the user and attachment options for accessories. Theportable physical fitness device can fold up and out of the way, makingit fashionable and not bulky. The invention can be used to target a widevariety of upper body muscle groups and is light and convenient.

The invention comprises a waist belt with two resistance bands attachedto it, one for each arm. Each resistance band has a handle end and aconnecting end. The resistance bands are long enough to allow the userto hold the resistance band handles and fully extend their arms.

In one embodiment, the resistance bands are removably attached to awaist belt such that a first resistance band is located on a user'sright side and a second resistance band is located on a user's left sidewhen the waist belt is worn. The first resistance band passes through afirst waist belt opening and the second resistance band passes through asecond waist belt opening. The first resistance band and secondresistance band are attached to the waist belt by placing a knot in eachconnecting end of each resistance band or using a connector for eachconnecting end to prevent the connecting ends from passing backwardthrough the waist belt openings. The resistance bands are long enough toallow the user to hold the resistance band handles and fully extendtheir arms. The user may remove the resistance bands by undoing theknots or other connectors and may replace the resistance bands withother resistance bands of different lengths or tensions.

In another embodiment, the resistance bands fit inside a receptacle,such as a ratchet, or ratchet device, attached to the waist belt, sothat the resistance bands are stored in the ratchet or ratchet device onthe waist belt when not extended or not in use. When the user is readyto use the resistance bands, the user can pull the resistance bands outfrom the waist belt using the ratchet devices. The ratchet devices canalso allow the user to create different tensions in the resistance bandsby pulling the bands out of the ratchet devices at different distances.The ratchet devices can also have release buttons to release theresistance bands so they retract into the ratchet devices.

In another embodiment, the resistance bands are replaced with resistancecoils.

In various embodiments, this invention can also include a gel-filledspine support, a smartphone pocket, a battery charger for a smartphoneor other electronic device, a zippered pocket for small items, Velcro®or other hook-and-loop material attachments, a water bottle holder,sensors that connect to a mobile application for monitoring heartrate orcalories burned, different resistance bands with different tensions thatare interchangeable, loops to provide different angles of resistance.

In various embodiments, this invention can also include muscleactivators such as muscle activators for abdominal muscles, which wouldcover a wider area across the user's abdomen than a waist belt withoutan abdominal muscle activator.

For example, in one embodiment, a portable physical fitness device isdisclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user's waistcomprising a first waist belt opening, a second waist belt opening, afirst waist belt end, and a second waist belt end; a pocket; anadjustable waist belt closure; a first resistance band comprising afirst handle end, a first handle comprising a first gripping portion, afirst strap portion, a first fastener, and wherein the first fastenerattaches the first handle to the first resistance band at the firsthandle end; a first connecting end wherein the first resistance bandpasses through the first opening in the waist belt to removably attachthe first resistance band to the waist belt with a first resistance bandknot; a second resistance band comprising a second handle end, a secondhandle comprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, asecond fastener; and wherein the second fastener attaches the secondhandle to the second resistance band at the second handle end; a secondconnecting end; and wherein the second resistance band passes throughthe second opening in the waist belt to removably attach the secondresistance band to the waist belt with a second resistance band knot.

In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can furthercomprise wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a fastenerstrap at the first waist belt end comprising a connection portion fortightening the waist belt, a buckle strap at the second waist belt endfurther comprising a buckle, wherein the buckle attaches to the bucklestrap, and wherein the connection portion is configured to be insertedthrough the buckle for securing the portable physical fitness device tothe user; wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises a firstfastener strap at the first waist belt end, a second fastener strap atthe second waist belt end wherein the first fastener strap and thesecond fastener strap overlap, a plurality of snaps, each one of theplurality of snaps comprises a socket located on the first fastenerstrap and a stud located on the second fastener strap, and wherein thewaist belt is configured to be secured to around the user's waist byclosing at least one of the plurality of snaps; wherein the adjustablewaist belt closure comprises a fastener strap at the first waist beltend comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, theconnection portion comprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strapat the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the bucklecomprising a prong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached tothe bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notcheson the connection portion of the fastener strap for securing theportable fitness device around the user's waist; or wherein theadjustable waist belt closure comprises a fastener strap at the firstwaist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waistbelt, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end, the buckle strapcomprising a first loop, a second loop, and wherein the fastener strapis looped over the first loop and under the second loop to secure theportable fitness device around the user's waist.

In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can alsofurther comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; amagnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing platefor attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensorfor calculating calories burned; or one or more loops on the waist belt.

In another example embodiment, a portable physical fitness device isdisclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user's waistcomprising a first receptacle mounted on the waist belt; a secondreceptacle mounted on the waist belt; a first waist belt end; a secondwaist belt end; an adjustable waist belt closure; a first resistanceband comprising a first handle end, a first handle comprising a firstgripping portion, a first strap portion, a first fastener, and whereinthe first fastener attaches the first handle to the first resistanceband at the first handle end; a first connecting end attached to thefirst receptacle, and wherein the first resistance band is extendablefrom the first receptacle and retractable into the first receptacle; asecond resistance band comprising a second handle end, a second handlecomprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, a secondfastener, and wherein the second fastener attaches the second handle tothe second resistance band at the second handle end; and a secondconnecting end attached to the second receptacle, and wherein the secondresistance band is extendable from the second receptacle and retractableinto the second receptacle.

In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can furthercomprise a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt, and a buckle strap atthe second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein thebuckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein the connection portionis configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing theportable physical fitness device to the user; a first fastener strap atthe first waist belt, a second fastener strap at the second waist beltend, wherein the first fastener strap and the second fastener strapoverlap, a plurality of snaps, each one of the plurality of snapscomprising a socket located on the first fastener strap, and a studlocated on the second fastener strap, and wherein the waist belt isconfigured to be secured around the user's waist by closing at least oneof the plurality of snaps; a fastener strap at the first waist belt endcomprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, theconnection portion comprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strapat the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the bucklecomprising a prong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached tothe bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notcheson the connection portion of the fastener strap to secure the portablefitness device around the user's waist; a fastener strap at the firstwaist belt end comprising a connection portion for tightening the waistbelt, and a buckle strap at the second waist belt end, the buckle strapcomprising a first loop, and a second loop, and wherein the fastenerstrap is configured to be looped over the first loop and under thesecond loop for securing the portable fitness device around the user'swaist.

In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can alsofurther comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; amagnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing platefor attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensorfor calculating calories burned; one or more loops on the waist belt;wherein the tension of the first resistance band is adjusted by usingthe first receptacle to control a usable length of the first resistanceband; wherein the tension of the second resistance band is adjusted byusing the second receptacle to control a usable length of the secondresistance band; or wherein the first receptacle comprises a ratchet andwherein the second receptacle comprises a ratchet.

In another example embodiment, a portable physical fitness device isdisclosed comprising a waist belt for fitting around a user's waistcomprising a first receptacle mounted on the waist belt, a secondreceptacle mounted on the waist belt, a first waist belt end, a secondwaist belt end, and an adjustable waist belt closure; a first resistancecoil comprising a first handle end, a first handle comprising a firstgripping portion, a first strap portion, a first fastener, wherein thefirst handle attaches to the first resistance coil at the first handleend with the first fastener, a first connecting end attached to thefirst receptacle, and wherein the first resistance coil is extendablefrom the first receptacle and retractable into the first receptacle; asecond resistance comprising a second handle end, a second handlecomprising a second gripping portion, a second strap portion, a secondfastener, and wherein the second handle attaches to the secondresistance coil at the second handle end with the second fastener; asecond connecting end attached to the second receptacle; and wherein thesecond resistance coil is extendable from the second receptacle andretractable into the second receptacle.

In this embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can furthercomprise a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt and a buckle strap atthe second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein thebuckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein the connection portionis configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing theportable physical fitness device around the user's waist; a firstfastener strap at the first waist belt end, a second fastener strap atthe second waist belt end, wherein the first fastener strap and thesecond fastener strap overlap, a plurality of snaps, each snapcomprising a socket located on the first fastener strap, and a studlocated on the second fastener strap, and wherein the waist belt isconfigured to be secured around the user's waist by closing at least oneof the snaps; a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt, the connection portioncomprising a plurality of notches, and a buckle strap at the secondwaist belt end further comprising a buckle, the buckle comprising aprong, a bar, and wherein the prong is movably attached to the bar toallow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notches on theconnection portion of the fastener strap for securing the portablefitness device around the user's waist; or a fastener strap at the firstend comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, and abuckle strap at the second end, the buckle strap comprising a firstloop, and a second loop, and wherein the fastener strap is looped overthe first loop and under the second loop to secure the belt and adjustthe tightness

In this same embodiment, the portable physical fitness device can alsofurther comprise a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack; amagnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories; a securing platefor attaching accessories; a sensor for monitoring heart rate; a sensorfor calculating calories burned; one or more loops on the waist belt;wherein the tension of the first resistance band is adjusted by usingthe first receptacle to control a usable length of the first resistanceband; wherein the tension of the second resistance band is adjusted byusing the second receptacle to control a usable length of the secondresistance band; or wherein the first receptacle comprises a ratchet andwherein the second receptacle comprises a ratchet.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent upon consideration of the following detailed descriptionand the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a portable physical fitness device withresistance bands with the belt fastener in a partially loosenedposition.

FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness devicewith retractable resistance bands with the belt fastener in a tightenedposition.

FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness devicehaving a center back support and retractable resistance bands with thebelt fastener in a tightened position.

FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness devicewith retractable resistance bands and with magnetic plates on the beltto attach magnetized accessories.

FIG. 5 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use withthe user performing a shoulder raise exercise.

FIG. 6 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use withthe user performing a back-spread exercise.

FIG. 7 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use withthe user performing a chest press exercise.

FIG. 8 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use withthe user performing a shoulder press and triceps extension exercise.

FIG. 9 shows the portable physical fitness device of FIG. 2 in use withthe user performing a bicep curl exercise.

FIG. 10 shows a resistance band inside a ratchet device for the portablephysical fitness device shown in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 11 shows an alternate embodiment of a fastener for the portablephysical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .

FIG. 12 shows another alternate embodiment of a fastener for theportable physical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .

FIG. 13 shows another alternate embodiment of a fastener for theportable physical fitness devices shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the portable physical fitnessdevice shown in FIG. 2 with spring resistance coils.

FIG. 15 shows one example embodiment of a loop for the portable fitnessdevice of FIG. 1 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following is a detailed description of embodiments to illustrate theprinciples of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrateaspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to anyembodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerousalternatives, modifications, and equivalents. The scope of the inventionis limited only by the claims.

While numerous specific details are set forth in the followingdescription to provide a thorough understanding of the invention, theinvention may be practiced according to the claims without some or allof these specific details.

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to theaccompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers areused throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.References made to particular examples and implementations are forillustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of theclaims.

Portable Physical Fitness Device 10

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of portable physical fitness device 10.Portable physical fitness device 10 comprises waist belt 20 that can besecured around a user's waist. Waist belt 20 comprises first waist beltend 22 and second waist belt end 23.

In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 is about four to six incheswide and fits around the waist of an average person with sufficientlength for waist belt 20 to fasten. Waist belt 20 comprises first waistbelt end 22 and second waist belt end 23. One of skill in the art willunderstand that waist belt 20 can be shorter for use by a person with awaist smaller than an average person or longer for use by a person witha waist larger than an average person.

Portable physical fitness device 10 further comprises adjustable waistbelt closure 29. As shown in FIG. 1 , adjustable waist belt closure 29comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28is attached to buckle strap 26.

In one embodiment, fastener strap 24 is attached to waist belt 20 at aposition on first waist belt end 22 to the right of the user's frontcenter and buckle strap 26 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position onsecond waist belt end 23 to the left of the user's front center asportable physical fitness device 10 is worn by the user.

In an alternative embodiment fastener strap 24 is attached to waist belt20 at a position to the left of the user's front center and buckle strap26 is attached to waist belt 20 at a position to the right of the user'sfront center as portable physical fitness device 10 is worn by the user.

In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 is made of a sturdy material,such as leather, synthetic leather, a sturdy fabric, or a tough-flexiblematerial such as cotton and elastic blends, canvas, or neoprene, whichis a type of synthetic, flexible rubber.

Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that can pass throughbuckle 28. Unattached end 25 of connection portion 27 can be used totighten and secure portable physical fitness device 10 around a user'swaist. In one example embodiment, fastener strap 24 and buckle strap 26are made of a strong, flexible fabric material.

In one example embodiment, connection portion 27 comprises a connectingmaterial that can fold back on itself. In one example embodiment, thematerial that can fold back on itself for connection portion 27 is ahook and loop material. In an example embodiment, the hook and loopmaterial is Velcro®.

In one example embodiment, waist belt 20 further comprises at least onepocket 37 attached to the exterior surface of waist belt 20 as shown inFIG. 1 to hold items such as a smartphone, a battery charger for asmartphone or other electronic devices, or sensors that connect to amobile application for monitoring bio data such as heartrate or exertionof calories. Alternatively, other attachments mechanisms (not shown) onthe exterior surface of waist belt 20 such as hooks, loops, magnets,Velcro® or other similar attaching apparatuses can be used to attachsuch devices to waist belt 20.

As shown in FIG. 1 , portable physical fitness device 10 furthercomprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band 31.Resistance bands 30 and 31 each have handle end 32 and connecting end34. Resistance bands 30 and 31 are removably attached to waist belt 20at locations that correspond to the user's right side and left side,respectively, as portable physical fitness device 10 is worn by theuser.

In an example embodiment, first resistance band 30 passes through firstwaist belt opening 35 and second resistance band 31 passes throughsecond waist belt opening 36 in waist belt 20. First resistance band 30and second resistance band 31 are attached to waist belt 20 with knot 38in connecting end 34 of resistance bands 30 and 31 to prevent resistancebands 30 and 31 from passing back through waist belt openings 35 and 36.

Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at handleend 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44,and fastener 46. Fastener 46 can be a ring, loop, oval connector, orother hardware device that fits through openings in base handle ends 32and openings in strap portions 44.

One of skill in the art will understand that resistance bands 30 and 31are long enough to allow the user to hold the resistance band handles 42and fully extend their arms.

In one embodiment, gripping portion 42 can be made of a soft cloth orfoam material covering a metal core for attaching handle 40 to one ormore magnets (not shown) on waist belt 20 for storage when not in use.In another embodiment, gripping portion 42 can include Velcro® or othersimilar attaching material to attach handle 40 to waist belt 20 forstorage when not in use. Strap portion 44 can be made from a strongcloth or fabric material.

Each handle 40 is connected to one of resistance bands 30 and 31 atresistance band handle end 32 by fastener 46. The user may removeresistance bands 30 and 31 by untying resistance band knots 38 and mayreplace resistance bands 30 and 31 with other resistance bands ofdifferent lengths and tensions.

Resistance bands 30 and 31 are preferably made of rubber such asheavy-duty latex rubber, or any other similar material that haselasticity and strength.

In order to use portable physical fitness device 10, the user placeswaist belt 20 around the user's waist. First waist belt end 22 andsecond waist belt end 23 meet or overlap in front of the user's body.The user then fastens portable physical fitness device 10 by insertingfastener strap 24 through buckle 28, and securing or attachingconnection portion 27 of fastener strap 24 to tighten and secureportable physical fitness device 10 to fit snuggly around the user'swaist.

Once fastened and secured, the user may perform a variety of exercises,including shoulder raises, back spreads, chest presses, shoulder pressesor triceps extensions, and bicep curls, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8,and 9 , respectively. Other exercises or other variations of theseexercises may also be performed.

Alternative Portable Physical Fitness Devices 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and110

FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a portable physical fitnessdevice, portable physical fitness device 60, in a tightened position.Portable physical fitness device 60 is similar to portable physicalfitness device 10 except first resistance band 30 and second resistanceband 31 are retractable. Portable physical fitness device 60 compriseswaist belt 62 that can be secured around the user's waist.

As with waist belt 20 of portable physical fitness device 10 (FIG. 1 ),waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 comprises firstwaist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist beltclosure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to bucklestrap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that canpass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitnessdevice 60 around the user's waist. Portable physical fitness device 60further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Eachresistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistanceband handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strapportion 44, and fastener 46.

In one example embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 62 through receptacles, such as ratchet devices 64. Ratchetdevices 64 are mounted on waist belt 62 at locations that correspond tothe user's right and left sides as portable physical fitness device 60is worn. Resistance bands 30 and 31 are extendable from and retractableinto ratchet devices 64.

FIG. 10 shows first resistance band 30 in a partially extended positionwhere a portion of resistance band 30 is inside one ratchet device 64.

In one embodiment, ratchet devices 64 with ratchet teeth 65 allow theuser to create different tensions in resistance bands 30 and 31 bypulling resistance bands 30 and 31 out of ratchet devices 64 atdifferent distances.

In one embodiment, each ratchet device 64 can be a one-way ratchet.Ratchet devices 64 may also comprise release button 66 in ratchet cover68 to release resistance bands 30 and 31 from ratchet devices 64 orretract resistance bands 30 and 31 back into ratchet devices 64.

Turning back to FIG. 2 , in order to use portable physical fitnessdevice 60, the user places waist belt 62 around the user's waist, asdescribed with respect to FIG. 1 . Once fastened as described withrespect to FIG. 1 , the user can perform the exercises such as thoseshown in FIGS. 5-9 . The user can adjust the tension of resistance bands30 and 31 by lengthening (to decrease tension) or shortening (toincrease tension) the length of resistance bands 30 and 31 by usingratchet devices 64 to retract or extend resistance bands 30 and 31 asdescribed.

The user may remove resistance bands 30 and 31 from ratchet devices 64to replace resistance bands 30 and 31 with other resistance bands 30 and31 of different lengths or different tensions.

In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 62 as described in connection with portable physical fitnessdevice 10 (FIG. 1 ).

FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device,portable physical fitness device 70, in a tightened position. Portablephysical fitness device 70 is similar to portable physical fitnessdevices 10 and 60. Portable physical fitness device 70 comprises waistbelt 72 that fits around the user's waist.

As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2 ),waist belt 72 of portable physical fitness device 70 comprises firstwaist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist beltclosure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to bucklestrap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that canpass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitnessdevice 70 around the user's waist. Portable physical fitness device 70further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Eachresistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistanceband handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strapportion 44, and fastener 46.

In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 70 furthercomprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portablephysical fitness device 60.

In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 72 as described in connection with portable physical fitnessdevice 10 (FIG. 1 )

Waist belt 72 also comprises slot 74 located at the center back to holda gel pack (not shown). The gel pack can be a standard gel pack thatprovides support for the user's spine during exercise.

In a further alternative embodiment, waist belt 72 with slot 74 at thecenter back to hold the gel pack (not shown) can also be used withportable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 80 (FIG. 4 ), 90 (FIG. 11 ),100 (FIG. 12 ), and 110 (FIG. 13 ).

FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of a portable physical fitness device,portable physical fitness device 80, in a tightened position. Portablephysical fitness device 80 is similar to portable physical fitnessdevices 10, 60, and 70. Portable physical fitness device 80 compriseswaist belt 82.

As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2 ),waist belt 82 of portable physical fitness device 80 comprises firstwaist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23, and adjustable waist beltclosure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29 comprises fastener strap24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28 is attached to bucklestrap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connection portion 27 that canpass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27 comprises unattached end25 that can be used to tighten and secure portable physical fitnessdevice 60 around a user's waist. Portable physical fitness device 80further comprises first resistance band 30 and second resistance band31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end 32. Eachresistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached at resistanceband handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strapportion 44, and fastener 46.

In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 80 furthercomprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portablephysical fitness device 60.

In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 82 as described in connection with portable physical fitnessdevice 10 (FIG. 2 )

Waist belt 82 further comprises at least one plate 84 located onfastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, or on both fastener strap 24 andbuckle strap 26 that allows the user to attach accessories, such as asmartphone or water bottle, to portable physical fitness device 80 andto secure handles 40 to portable physical fitness device 80 for storagewhen not in use.

In one embodiment, plate 84 can comprise a magnetic plate to allow theuser to attach magnetized accessories. In another embodiment, plate 84can comprise a plate with Velcro® or other hook and loop material forattaching accessories.

In a further alternative embodiment, plate 84 can also be used withportable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 90 (FIG. 11 ), 100 (FIG.12 ), and 110 (FIG. 13 ).

In another example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , portable physicalfitness device 90 comprises waist belt 92.

As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2 ),waist belt 92 of portable physical fitness device 90 comprises firstwaist belt end 22, second waist belt end 23. Portable physical fitnessdevice 90 further comprises first resistance band 30 and secondresistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached atresistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 90 furthercomprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portablephysical fitness device 60.

In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 92 as described in connection with portable physical fitnessdevice 10 (FIG. 1 ).

Waist belt 92 further comprises snapping adjustable waist belt closure122. Snapping adjustable waist belt closure 122 comprises first fastenerstrap 124 that is configured to overlap with second fastener strap 126.Snaps 129 are used to connect first fastener strap 124 with secondfastener strap 126 where each snap comprises socket 127 located on firstfastener strap 124 and stud 128 located on second fastener strap 126 asshown in FIG. 11 .

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 , portable physical fitnessdevice 100 comprises waist belt 102. Waist belt 102 further comprisesadjustable waist belt closure 222 with a plurality of notches 227 inconnection portion 27 of fastener strap 24, and buckle 229 attached tobuckle strap 26. Buckle 229 comprises prong 228 movably attached to bar230 such that prong 228 slips into one of the plurality of notches 227of fastener strap 24 to fasten portable physical fitness device 100around the user. The plurality of notches 227 allows portable physicalfitness device 100 to be tightened or loosened when worn by the user.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13 , portable physical fitnessdevice 110 comprises waist belt 112.

As with waist belt 62 of portable physical fitness device 60 (FIG. 2 ),waist belt 112 of portable physical fitness device 110 comprises firstwaist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23. Portable physicalfitness device 110 further comprises first resistance band 30 and secondresistance band 31. Resistance bands 30 and 31 each comprise handle end32. Each resistance band 30 and 31 comprises handle 40 attached atresistance band handle end 32. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion42, strap portion 44, and fastener 46.

In one example embodiment, portable physical fitness device 110 furthercomprises ratchet devices 64 as described with respect to portablephysical fitness device 60.

In an alternate embodiment, resistance bands 30 and 31 are connected towaist belt 102 as described in connection with portable physical fitnessdevice 10 (FIG. 1 ).

Waist belt 112 further comprises first loop 328 and second loop 329connected to buckle strap 26 of looping adjustable waist belt closure322. Fastener strap 24 is looped over first loop 328 and under secondloop 329 to fasten waist belt 112 around the user to allow adjustment ofthe tightness.

In various embodiments, each of snapping adjustable waist belt closure122, buckling adjustable waist belt closure 222, and looping adjustablewaist belt closure 322 for securing the portable physical fitness devicearound a user's waist that are shown in FIGS. 11-13 can be used withportable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, or 80 in place ofadjustable waist belt closure 29.

In other various embodiments, portable physical fitness devices 10, 60,70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 may include pockets 37 as shown in FIG. 1 inwaist belt 20. In one example embodiment, at least one pocket 37 may bea zippered pocket.

An alternate embodiment of a portable physical fitness device, portablephysical fitness device 120 is shown in FIG. 14 .

As with portable physical fitness devices 10 (FIG. 1 ) and 60 (FIG. 2 ),portable physical fitness device 120 comprises waist belt 62, and waistbelt 62 comprises first waist belt end 22 and second waist belt end 23,and adjustable waist belt closure 29. Adjustable waist belt closure 29comprises fastener strap 24, buckle strap 26, and buckle 28. Buckle 28is attached to buckle strap 26. Fastener strap 24 comprises connectionportion 27 that can pass through buckle 28. Connection portion 27comprises unattached end 25 that can be used to tighten and secureportable physical fitness device 60 around a user's waist.

Portable physical fitness device 120 further comprises spring resistancecoils 130 and 131 instead of resistance bands 30 and 31 in portablephysical fitness devices 10 and 60. In one embodiment, spring resistancecoils 130 and 131 can be connected to waist belt 62 with ratchet devices64 as described with respect to portable physical fitness device 60. Inanother embodiment, spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can be connecteddirectly to waist belt 20 through waist belt openings 35 and 36 asdescribed with respect to portable physical fitness device 10.

Resistance coils 130 and 131 each comprise coil handle end 132. Eachresistance coil 130 and 131 comprises handle 40 attached at coil handleend 132. Each handle 40 comprises gripping portion 42, strap portion 44,and fastener 46.

In one embodiment, spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can be covered ina casing, either fabric or a thin rubber.

Spring resistance coils 130 and 131 can also be used instead ofresistance bands 30 and 31 in portable physical fitness devices 70, 80,90, 100, or 110 using ratchet devices 64 as described with respect toportable physical fitness device 60.

As shown in FIG. 15 for portable physical fitness device 10, portablephysical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 may alsoinclude loops 39, such as carabiners, connected to waist belts 20, 62,72, 82, 92, 102, and 112, respectively, to provide different angles ofresistance by passing resistance bands 30 and 31 or resistance bands 130and 131 through at least one loop 39. In example embodiments, loops 39can connect to waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 112 throughholes formed in waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92, 102, and 112, throughadditional connection loops attached to waist belts 20, 62, 72, 82, 92,102, and 112, or other mechanisms known in the art.

Portable physical fitness devices 10, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 mayalso include muscle activators (not shown) such as muscle activators forabdominal muscles, which would cover a wider area across the abdomen.

While the invention has been specifically described in connection withcertain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that thisis by way of illustration and not of limitation. Reasonable variationsand modifications are possible within the scope of the foregoingdisclosure and drawings without departing from the spirit of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable physical fitness device comprising: awaist belt for fitting around a user's waist comprising; a first waistbelt opening; a second waist belt opening; a first waist belt end; asecond waist belt end; a pocket; an adjustable waist belt closure; afirst resistance band comprising: a first handle end, a first handlecomprising: a first gripping portion; a first strap portion; a firstfastener; and wherein the first fastener attaches the first handle tothe first resistance band at the first handle end; a first connectingend; and wherein the first resistance band passes through the firstopening in the waist belt to removably attach the first resistance bandto the waist belt with a first resistance band knot; a second resistanceband comprising: a second handle end, a second handle comprising: asecond gripping portion; a second strap portion; a second fastener; andwherein the second fastener attaches the second handle to the secondresistance band at the second handle end; a second connecting end; andwherein the second resistance band passes through the second opening inthe waist belt to removably attach the second resistance band to thewaist belt with a second resistance band knot.
 2. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waist belt closurecomprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt; and a buckle strap atthe second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, wherein thebuckle attaches to the buckle strap; and wherein the connection portionis configured to be inserted through the buckle for securing theportable physical fitness device to the user.
 3. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waist belt closurecomprises: a first fastener strap at the first waist belt end; a secondfastener strap at the second waist belt end wherein the first fastenerstrap and the second fastener strap overlap; a plurality of snaps, eachone of the plurality of snaps comprises: a socket located on the firstfastener strap; and a stud located on the second fastener strap; whereinthe waist belt is configured to be secured to around the user's waist byclosing at least one of the plurality of snaps.
 4. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waist belt closurecomprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt, the connection portioncomprising a plurality of notches; and a buckle strap at the secondwaist belt end further comprising a buckle, the buckle comprising: aprong; a bar; and wherein the prong is movably attached to the bar toallow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notches on theconnection portion of the fastener strap for securing the portablefitness device around the user's waist.
 5. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waist belt closure comprises: afastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising a connectionportion for tightening the waist belt; and a buckle strap at the secondwaist belt end, the buckle strap comprising: a first loop; and a secondloop; and wherein the fastener strap is looped over the first loop andunder the second loop to secure the portable fitness device around theuser's waist.
 6. The portable physical fitness device of claim 1 furthercomprising a slot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack.
 7. Theportable physical fitness device of claim 1 further comprising amagnetic plate for attaching magnetized accessories.
 8. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 1 further comprising a securing platefor attaching accessories.
 9. The portable physical fitness device ofclaim 1 further comprising a sensor for monitoring heart rate.
 10. Theportable physical fitness device of claim 1 further comprising a sensorfor calculating calories burned.
 11. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 1 further comprising one or more loops on the waistbelt.
 12. A portable physical fitness device comprising: a waist beltfor fitting around a user's waist comprising; a first receptacle mountedon the waist belt; a second receptacle mounted on the waist belt; afirst waist belt end; a second waist belt end; an adjustable waist beltclosure; a first resistance band comprising: a first handle end, a firsthandle comprising: a first gripping portion; a first strap portion; afirst fastener; and wherein the first fastener attaches the first handleto the first resistance band at the first handle end; a first connectingend attached to the first receptacle; and wherein the first resistanceband is extendable from the first receptacle and retractable into thefirst receptacle; a second resistance band comprising: a second handleend, a second handle comprising: a second gripping portion; a secondstrap portion; a second fastener; and wherein the second fastenerattaches the second handle to the second resistance band at the secondhandle end; a second connecting end attached to the second receptacle;and wherein the second resistance band is extendable from the secondreceptacle and retractable into the second receptacle.
 13. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 12 wherein the adjustable waist beltclosure comprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt endcomprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt; and abuckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle,wherein the buckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein theconnection portion is configured to be inserted through the buckle forsecuring the portable physical fitness device to the user.
 14. Theportable physical fitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waistbelt closure comprises: a first fastener strap at the first waist belt;a second fastener strap at the second waist belt end, wherein the firstfastener strap and the second fastener strap overlap; a plurality ofsnaps, each one of the plurality of snaps comprising: a socket locatedon the first fastener strap; and a stud located on the second fastenerstrap; wherein the waist belt is configured to be secured around theuser's waist by closing at least one of the plurality of snaps.
 15. Theportable physical fitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waistbelt closure comprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt endcomprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, theconnection portion comprising a plurality of notches; and a buckle strapat the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the bucklecomprising: a prong; a bar; and wherein the prong is movably attached tothe bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notcheson the connection portion of the fastener strap to secure the portablefitness device around the user's waist.
 16. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 1 wherein the adjustable waist belt closurecomprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt; and a buckle strap atthe second waist belt end, the buckle strap comprising: a first loop;and a second loop; and wherein the fastener strap is configured to belooped over the first loop and under the second loop for securing theportable fitness device around the user's waist.
 17. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 12 further comprising a slot in thewaist belt for holding a gel pack.
 18. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 12 further comprising a magnetic plate for attachingmagnetized accessories.
 19. The portable physical fitness device ofclaim 12 further comprising a securing plate for attaching accessories.20. The portable physical fitness device of claim 12 further comprisinga pocket in the waist belt.
 21. The portable physical fitness device ofclaim 12 further comprising a sensor for monitoring heart rate.
 22. Theportable physical fitness device of claim 12 further comprising a sensorfor calculating calories burned.
 23. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 12 wherein the tension of the first resistance band isadjusted by using the first receptacle to control a usable length of thefirst resistance band.
 24. The portable physical fitness device of claim12 wherein the tension of the second resistance band is adjusted byusing the second receptacle to control a usable length of the secondresistance band.
 25. The portable physical fitness device of claim 12further comprising one or more loops on the waist belt.
 26. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 12 wherein the first receptaclecomprises a ratchet and wherein the second receptacle comprises aratchet.
 27. A portable physical fitness device comprising: a waist beltfor fitting around a user's waist comprising; a first receptacle mountedon the waist belt; a second receptacle mounted on the waist belt; afirst waist belt end; a second waist belt end; an adjustable waist beltclosure; a first resistance coil comprising: a first handle end, a firsthandle comprising: a first gripping portion; a first strap portion; afirst fastener; and wherein the first handle attaches to the firstresistance coil at the first handle end with the first fastener; a firstconnecting end attached to the first receptacle; and wherein the firstresistance coil is extendable from the first receptacle and retractableinto the first receptacle; a second resistance comprising: a secondhandle end, a second handle comprising: a second gripping portion; asecond strap portion; a second fastener; and wherein the second handleattaches to the second resistance coil at the second handle end with thesecond fastener; a second connecting end attached to the secondreceptacle; and wherein the second resistance coil is extendable fromthe second receptacle and retractable into the second receptacle. 28.The portable physical fitness device of claim 27 wherein the adjustablewaist belt closure comprises: a fastener strap at the first waist beltend comprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt; and abuckle strap at the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle,wherein the buckle attaches to the buckle strap, and wherein theconnection portion is configured to be inserted through the buckle forsecuring the portable physical fitness device around the user's waist.29. The portable physical fitness device of claim 27 wherein theadjustable waist belt closure comprises: a first fastener strap at thefirst waist belt end; a second fastener strap at the second waist beltend, wherein the first fastener strap and the second fastener strapoverlap; a plurality of snaps, each snap comprising: a socket located onthe first fastener strap; and a stud located on the second fastenerstrap; wherein the waist belt is configured to be secured around theuser's waist by closing at least one of the snaps.
 30. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 27 wherein the adjustable waist beltclosure comprises: a fastener strap at the first waist belt endcomprising a connection portion for tightening the waist belt, theconnection portion comprising a plurality of notches; and a buckle strapat the second waist belt end further comprising a buckle, the bucklecomprising: a prong; a bar; and wherein the prong is movably attached tothe bar to allow the prong to slip into one of the plurality of notcheson the connection portion of the fastener strap for securing theportable fitness device around the user's waist.
 31. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 27 wherein the adjustable waist beltclosure comprises: a fastener strap at the first end comprising aconnection portion for tightening the waist belt; and a buckle strap atthe second end, the buckle strap comprising: a first loop; and a secondloop; and wherein the fastener strap is looped over the first loop andunder the second loop to secure the belt and adjust the tightness. 32.The portable physical fitness device of claim 27 further comprising aslot in the waist belt for holding a gel pack.
 33. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 27 further comprising a magnetic plate forattaching magnetized accessories.
 34. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 27 further comprising a securing plate for attachingaccessories.
 35. The portable physical fitness device of claim 27further comprising a pocket in the waist belt.
 36. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 27 further comprising a sensor for monitoringheart rate.
 37. The portable physical fitness device of claim 27 furthercomprising a sensor for calculating calories burned.
 38. The portablephysical fitness device of claim 27 wherein the tension of the firstresistance coil is adjusted by using the first receptacle to control ausable length of the first resistance coil.
 39. The portable physicalfitness device of claim 27 wherein the tension of the second resistancecoil is adjusted by using the second receptacle to control a usablelength of the second resistance coil.
 40. The portable physical fitnessdevice of claim 27 further comprising one or more loops on the waistbelt.
 41. The portable physical fitness device of claim 27 wherein thefirst receptacle comprises a ratchet and wherein the second receptaclecomprises a ratchet.